Episode 301: A Chat with YA Fantasy Author, D.J. Williams
What do you get when mesh elements of Harry Potter, Indiana Jones, and National Treasure? How about a YA Fantasy adventure that combines travel (especially in eastern countries and other worlds) with superpowers! Put out through Tyndale's Wander imprint, the Beacon Hill Series by D. J. Williams sounds crazy exciting, and I am rooting for a streaming series (but there are other possible options, too!) Listen in to learn more!
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You Can Never Have Enough Exciting YA Fantasy, Right?
The Beacon Hill series (or at least the school/friend group) was inspired by D. J. Williams' own youth living in Hong Kong. Add to that extensive travel throughout the world (don't miss his elephant story while on location in Zambia!) and you've got a background that can offer a thrilling ride! I can't wait to read these books and they're on their way to my house as I type, so eeep!
One thing I noticed when I read the synopsis of Secrets of the Highlands (book two--available and book 3 comes out later this year) is that it reads a bit like a tabletop role-playing game come to life! The whole quest and trying to find a healer thing really caught my eye (having attempted to play said games and failing miserably! LOL).
But D. J. Williams has written more than just the Beacon Hill series. He also has his adult thrillers and a new series he just started working on, so I think we're in for a long, literary ride with this guy. I can't wait to get started.
Hunt for Eden's Star by D. J. Williams
Discover the story of an intrepid, globe-trotting teen and a motley group of friends in a world where choices have epic consequences.
In this new coming-of-age YA fantasy novel full of action-packed adventure, Williams tells the tale of a teen who is thrown into a world of ancient secrets when he discovers a supernatural artifact that protects a weapon of mass destruction. With the help of a diverse group of friends, he embarks on a global adventure, seeking the truth about his sister’s death. He uncovers two clandestine, supernatural societies waging an epic, hidden war that threatens the future of civilization.
As Jack races to collect ancient artifacts critical to the survival of the world, readers are transported to incredible international locales across Asia, including the lush jungles of the Philippines and the high-energy streets of Hong Kong. Themes of addiction, revenge, faith, and friendship emerge as Jack battles literal and psychological demons, and even his own friends and family members, on his quest to thwart the forces of evil.
In this novel, you will find:
- Relatable characters
- Clean and compelling YA fantasy
- The first in a series—more exciting material to come!
D. J. Williams’s suspenseful, page-turning style whisks readers into a wildly exciting, supernatural adventure that grabs hold of the imagination and never lets go.
“Fast-paced action and a rich setting boost the beginning of a promising paranormal saga.” - Kirkus Reviews on Hunt for Eden’s Star
“A blistering, high-stakes, fast-paced supernatural thriller that’s impossible to put down.” - Ryan Steck, author of Fields of Fire
Learn more about D. J. Williams from his WEBSITE and follow him on BookBub and GoodReads.
